Anbernic, perhaps the most well-known manufacturer of retro handheld gaming devices, just dropped a huge bombshell. Due to the spike in imposed import duties resulting from the continuing trade war, they have suspended all shipments from China to the United States. The firm made it unequivocally clear that this decision will shake up its product line-up. Ultimately, this means that the popular RG 34XX and RG 406H devices will soon face very limited availability in the U.S. market.
The RG 34XX, inspired by the game-changing retro Game Boy Advance design, is priced around $70. It’s no surprise that this device has the gaming world all abuzz. It beautifully captures the flavor of games from the original PlayStation era, delighting all the nostalgia and retro gaming lovers. With new inventory impossible anytime soon from China, consumers might have a tough time getting their hands on this device.
That bigger form factor means that the RG 406H can offer more flexibility. This is made possible by the potent Tiger T820 processor—a dream machine for gaming enthusiasts, replete with features that accelerate performance. The RG 406H retails for $170. It adds support for a much larger library of games, including GameCube and PS2 platform titles. Yet Anbernic is highly capable. Given the uncertainty caused by the international trade conflict, would-be new buyers could face added delays or feel they have fewer attractive options.
Anbernic wanted to highlight that although shipments from China are currently stopped, products that shipped from its U.S. Because these products aren’t subject to the import tariffs imposed on Chinese imports, they have a simpler path to American consumers. As Anbernic themselves admitted, the range of products available is now very heavily restricted.
“Due to changes in US tariff policies, we will be suspending all orders shipping from China to the United States starting today,” – Anbernic
To accomplish this, the company is getting ready to show the RG 557 — their ambition-filled new portable device. It won’t be coming—at least not yet—thanks to the ongoing trade war. While Anbernic offers a diverse range of products—from budget-friendly Game Boy-style throwbacks starting at $50 to higher-end Android-powered models—the current geopolitical climate poses significant challenges for the brand’s supply chain.